Hawaii first U.S. state to declare everyone deserves basic financial security
Hawaii is taking the lead in embracing yet another innovative idea: universal basic income (UBI).
States & provinces
This archive collects milestones and progress stories involving U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and subnational governments around the world. From landmark legislation to public health wins and environmental gains, these stories highlight the real-world impact of regional policy and governance.
Hawaii becomes America’s first state to join the Paris climate accord
Hawaii has become the first American state to adhere to the Paris climate agreement, just days after President Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the international pact.
Illinois passes automatic voter registration
With the unanimous passage in both the Illinois House and Senate of automatic voter registration (AVR) legislation, it is safe to say this particular reform is moving along rapidly with bipartisan support.
California commits to 100% renewables by 2045
California will source 100 per cent of its power from renewable energy, including solar and wind power by 2045.
California grid sets record, with 67% of power from renewables
Overall, renewables accounted for 42 percent of the California grid’s power on Saturday, not counting the large hydropower plants.
South Australia heading to 80% wind and solar by 2021/22
South Australia is not just likely to have already met its target of 50 per cent renewables some eight years ahead of time, it is now heading for an extraordinary penetration rate of 80 per cent wind and solar by 2021.
California is getting so much power from solar that wholesale electricity prices are turning negative
For the first time, more than half the power needs of the entire state came from solar power for a few hours that day, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).
New York grants free tuition for all state colleges
New York just became the first state in the nation to make tuition free for middle class students at both two- and four-year public colleges.
California EPA becomes first U.S. agency to declare that Roundup causes cancer
The state of California has finalized its decision designating glyphosate, the main ingredient in the pesticide Roundup, as a known human carcinogen under the state’s Proposition 65.
Maryland House votes to ban fracking by veto-proof margin
The majority, including a handful of Republicans, voted to ban the practice after hearing arguments that science shows that the risk of earthquakes, water contamination and health problems increases in fracked areas.